What is protein

Protein is a fundamental macronutrient, made up of amino acids, that serves as a building block for muscles, bones, nails, hair, and all cells, playing a vital role in the growth, repair, and function of the body as enzymes, hormones, and as part of the immune system.

You often hear amino acids described as “building blocks” because these small individual units come together in various ways to build proteins.

• Macromolecules:

They are large, complex molecules essential for life, composed of chains of amino acids.

• Essential amino acids:

The body requires 9 essential amino acids that must be obtained from food, as it cannot produce them on its own.

Οι Βασικές λειτουργίες των πρωτεϊνών είναι:

• Structural:

They give shape and support to tissues, organs, hair, and nails.

• Regulatory:

They function as hormones, enzymes, and messengers, and form part of the immune system.

• Energy:

They provide energy (4 calories per gram), although protein is preferably used for structural purposes.

• Anabolic:

They contribute to muscle growth when energy needs are met.

Protein sources:

• Animal-based:

Meat, fish, eggs, dairy products (e.g., casein, whey protein).

• Plant-based:

Soy, peas, rice, hemp, legumes (e.g., legumins).

In short, proteins are the “building blocks” and “workers” of the body, essential for its proper functioning and maintenance.

Do I need protein every day?

The answer is YES. You need protein every day.

It is important to distribute your protein intake throughout the day for better absorption and to support your training and dietary goals.

Eating the right amount — and the right type — of protein every day is important because:

if you had a systematic protein deficiency in your diet, your body would have no other choice but to start breaking down the proteins within your body to provide the amino acids needed for the most vital bodily proteins.

While this process of building and breaking down occurs continuously within your body, the system only functions properly as long as there are sufficient dietary amino acids available to keep these two processes in balance.

Σημαντική Σημείωση

The information provided is not medical advice but is for informational purposes only. For any questions, changes to your dietary plan, or before taking dietary supplements, consult your personal nutritionist or doctor.